With hats this big, who needs sunblock?

Top hats

Published On: May 26, 2010

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For 69 years, the savory scent of fresh fried chicken, deviled eggs and bourbon has perfumed the air at Percy Warner Park, the second Saturday of May. Everyone enjoys the picnic lunches, the liberal libations and the occasional horse. But most of all, folks enjoy the people watching. From the lavish hats, to the over-the-top styles, to the just down-right inappropriate get-ups, Steeplechase is a race to the fashion finish line.

Of course, the majority of attendees plan their outfits around their hats. Whether it is a boater, beret or beanie, a fedora, fez or a fascinator, Steeplechase hat styles truly run the gamut. As always, this year’s Nfocus Hat Contest Judges had their work cut out for them. Gloria Houghland, Beth Alexander, Carole Kirkland and Callie Kirkland took on the boxes with great fervor, prowling through the crowds as they searched for their fashion prey.

After reviewing a multitude of nominees, the Judges handed down their sentence. A nice sentence seeing that they receive a gift card from The Mall at Green Hills. Honors for most creative hat went to Sarah Deeb, who had a penchant for bumblebees. She created her own swarm attached to her head, to follow her around wherever she went. Sarah’s topper was also wildly popular with fans behind her because they could actually see through the bevy of bees.

Angela Humphreys and Joe Cashia took home the most stylish couple prize, as they looked dapper and dandy in their retro-esque outfits. Angela wore a black and white sheath with an understated, coordinating hat. Joe donned a classic blue blazer, pale pink waistcoat, linen windowpane pants, and a boater hat. These two looked as if they’d just left one of Jay Gatsby’s extravagant fête’s in the West Egg.

The third winner of the afternoon was Robert Dale, the classic gentleman. He sported a boater hat, which was a popular choice for men on this particular afternoon. But Robert stood out from the rest, with his sleek suit, charming smile and white bucks (those white bucks stayed pristine as he sent daughter Noni Haddock and granddaughter Naomi to accept his prize.).

Word of advice for fashion mavens: Start shopping now for 2011 Steeplechase! MM

—photographs by
eric england and sinclair kelly